F1 owner under investigation over Moto GP deal

In brief

Liberty faces EC probe

The EC is concerned Liberty Media would have too much power to control the prices for broadcasting the two highly popular motorsport series if it owned both of them. CVC Capital Partners sold its stake in Moto GP when it acquired F1 before Liberty Media.

“By acquiring [Moto GP owner] Dorna Sports, Liberty Media would hold the commercial rights to two of the most popular motorsports in Europe: Formula 1 and Moto GP,” said the EC’s executive vice-president for clean, just and competitive transition Teresa Ribera.

“We need to more carefully assess whether this acquisition could negatively affect European broadcasters, for example in terms of increased license fees, and ultimately European consumers and motorsports fans through higher prices. We will at the same time openly consider any substantiated claims by the parties about possible benefits this acquisition might bring, for fans, the industry and for consumers.”

Grosjean out of JHR as team confirms Daly

Juncos Hollinger Racing has confirmed Conor Daly as its second driver for the 2025 IndyCar season, ending Romain Grosjean’s tenure at the team. Daly impressed as the replacement for Agustin Canapino earlier this year, scoring their best result of the season with third place in Milwaukee.

He will partner Sting Ray Robb who joins their driver line-up next year. “After the excitement and success we shared in 2024, including Milwaukee, it feels like the perfect next step,” said Daly. “I’m grateful for Ricardo [Juncos] and Brad [Hollinger’s] belief in me as I embark on the revitalization of my career. I look forward to pursuing podiums and wins with this incredible group.”

Floersch joins Indy Nxt

Sophia Floersch will switch to racing in the USA next year, joining HMD in ther Indy Nxt series.

“The United States is more open to embracing a female racer, so this makes me very excited and optimistic about the things to come,” she said. “The sport, the racing, the cars, and the tracks are real and pure. It’s great to be welcomed so positively and friendly. You can feel the real racer energy inside HMD Motorsports. I can hardly wait and will be very happy when it starts in March in St. Pete.”

Alonso’s parents try F1 car

Fernando Alonso gave his parents a chance to experience a Formula 1 car at Motorland Aragon this week. He posted a picture on social media of his father Jose Luis in a McLaren.

Happy birthday!

Happy birthday to Ferrox Glideh!

On this day in motorsport

• Born on this day in 1968: Karl Wendlinger, who was part of Mercedes’ junior sports car team alongside Michael Schumacher, graduated to F1, but was badly injured in a crash at Monaco in 1994